Chris Platt

Managing director, Digin, on jam doughnuts, Jamie Oliver and being a koala

chris platt digin

What was your first-ever job? I was a barman in my village pub in the countryside. I was 18 and thought I’d meet girls - I mainly met farmers. I loved getting to know the whole community.

What’s been your worst job interview? I had an interview when the MD approached me in reception to welcome me. I greeted him with ‘Hi Jeremy, thanks for seeing me today’. ‘Who the hell is Jeremy?’ he said. A little flustered, I then walked into his office and sat in his chair.

What’s the first music single you bought? Take On Me by A-Ha.

How do you describe your job to your mates? Bizarrely, given that I run a company specialising in welcome boxes for students, I say it’s great not to have my role constrained to a box but rather be able to involve myself in operations, marketing, service, management and sales.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? What I love most is that we serve three groups and can make them all - brands, university and recipient - happy.

What is the least rewarding part of your job? It’s the admin. I enjoy building for the future rather than the day-to-day jobs.

What is your motto? ‘If I’d asked my customers what they wanted, they’d have said a faster horse’ - Henry Ford.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? Unlimited jam doughnuts.

If you could change one thing in grocery what would it be? It would be good if jam doughnuts didn’t exist.

What’s your favourite movie and why? Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid - the iconic final scene alone makes this a great film.

What’s been the most embarrassing moment in your life? My life is full of embarrassing moments - the fact embarrassment doesn’t normally kick in until the next day is what makes so many of them.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Jamie Oliver - I think he could help drive our business to shape healthy lifestyle and purchasing choices.

What luxury would you have on a desert island? Sunglasses… may as well kick back and enjoy it.

What animal best reflects your personality? A koala bear, because I might look a bit dopey but I’ve got good breath and give good hugs.